Biosecurity and Husbandry Best Practice

Biosecurity

Do not let biosecurity be compromised at any stage on your
rearing site or in your release pens. Letting your biosecurity
guard down will lead to increased risks of disease transfer and
substantial challenges for the newly hatched chicks. You must
consider the following points for good biosecurity:

Fig 1 Biosecurity is important inside and out

Cleaning and disinfecting equipment

Prepare for cleaning equipment in February and March.

Clean all houses, pens, drinkers, feeders, quad bikes and
trucks.

Remember the 3 Ds:

Drench - power wash everything to remove
organic material.

Allow to dry completely.

Detergent - use a powerful cleaner and
degreaser.

Allow to dry completely.

Disinfectant - spray a disinfectant known to
kill Cocci and viruses.

Clean water systems thoroughly - 24 hours with a hydrogen
peroxide based clean to remove organic biofilm and algae.

Replace all 5mm pipe as it's impossible to clean.

Fig 2 Power wash everything especially the corners of the
sheds

Foot dips

Wellies are good at spreading disease across pens and
sites.

Ensure foot dips are covered and regularly changed.

Foot dips should be available for all transitions between
different areas.